NEWS IN BRIEF. . . taken from the Autumn edition of the 2000 Gecko
by Lynton Auld – Degraded Lands Program Manager

The Urban Runoff Control Program (URCP) Bush Regeneration Workshop held on the 28/01/00 was organised as a way of sharing the enormous store of knowledge held by the bush regenerators involved with this project. URCP bush regeneration is the largest coordinated bush regeneration project to occur in Australia so far. The workshop discussed bush regeneration in the unique Blue Mountains ecosystems. Topics of discussion included: Problem weeds species – with those such as Broom, Montbretia, Pinus radiata and exotic grasses attracting the most discussion. Most methods of removal were considered standard, however a few interesting observations were raised, for example, Broom when cut in May in the upper Blue Mountains, has resulted in plant death, presumably due to the cold Winters. Restoration of creekbanks – transplanting natives (ie Blechnum) from areas of good bush into cleared areas on creekbanks is successful in helping stabilisation. Many contractors have had Blechnum propagated from spores taken from their sites and have found that envirocells were faster to establish than tubestock.

Burn piles – Many people mentioned the good regeneration of native species in the ash bed remaining after a burn pile. The size and shape of burnpiles was discussed and needs more experimentation. Weeds as habitat – weeds such as privet, blackberry and lantana provide shelter, protection from predators and food. The final aim for bush regenerators is to provide appropriate native habitat while removing the weeds. This issue is especially important when working in small isolated pockets of bush, where wildlife does not have anywhere to go. Bush regeneration is performing a vital service to our environment, even severely degraded areas are being reclaimed and turned back into good bush. The resilience of the bush and its ability to come back after years of abuse is astounding. Keep enthusiastic, spread the word, don’t become blasé and don’t be afraid to experiment and try new methods.